Trenton, N.J., January 17, 2014 — In celebration of Earth Day 2014, the Mercer County Improvement Authority (MCIA) encourages students in grades K–12 to participate in the Mercer County Recycles Video Contest. Students are invited to submit a three-minute video on the benefits of organic/food waste recycling. School faculty, particularly science teachers, are encouraged to include the video as part of their curriculum. The deadline for video submission is March 31, 2014.

“By keeping organic materials and waste out of our landfills, we reduce greenhouse gases. Organic wastes are the main producers of methane gas, which is a potent greenhouse gas,” said County Executive Brian M. Hughes.

Prizes will be award for first, second and third place in each grade level: Grade Level K-5, Grade Level 6-8 and Grade Level 9-12. Winners will be announced during Earth Day week.

The mission of the MCIA is to serve the needs of Mercer County while improving the quality of life for the residents by providing programs and services for the county, municipalities, school and fire districts, and not-for-profits in the areas of financing, project management, redevelopment, solid waste and recycling.